Maharashtrian Kadhi, also known as “Taakachi Kadhi,” is a delightful and nutritious yogurt-based curry that is perfect for a light and healthy dinner. This traditional dish is known for its tangy and slightly spicy flavor, making it a favorite in many households.
It’s easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or chapati. In this blog post, we’ll explore the steps to make this comforting dish, along with tips and variations to suit your taste.
What is Maharashtrian Kadhi?
Kadhi is a yogurt-based curry thickened with gram flour (besan) and seasoned with various spices. The Maharashtrian version of kadhi is lighter and thinner compared to other regional variations. It is often flavored with ginger, garlic, green chilies, and a tempering of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves. The tanginess of the yogurt and the aromatic spices make it a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Kadhi:
- 2 cups yogurt (preferably slightly sour)
- 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
- 2-3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- Salt to taste
For the Tempering:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (optional)
- 8-10 curry leaves
- 2 dried red chilies
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yogurt Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth and lump-free.
- Add the gram flour (besan) to the yogurt and whisk again until well combined.
- Pour in the water gradually, whisking continuously to ensure there are no lumps.
- Add turmeric powder, ginger paste, garlic paste, green chilies, and salt to the yogurt mixture. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Kadhi
- Transfer the yogurt mixture to a large saucepan and place it over medium heat.
- Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from curdling. Bring it to a gentle boil.
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Prepare the Tempering
- While the kadhi is simmering, prepare the tempering. Heat oil or ghee in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.
- Add cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds (if using), curry leaves, dried red chilies, and a pinch of asafoetida.
- Sauté the spices until they become aromatic and the curry leaves turn crispy.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Pour the prepared tempering over the simmering kadhi and mix well.
- Let the kadhi simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb the flavors of the tempering.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Maharashtrian kadhi hot with steamed rice or chapati.
- Enjoy the tangy and flavorful kadhi as a light and healthy dinner option.
Tips and Variations
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker kadhi, reduce the amount of water. For a thinner consistency, add more water as needed.
- Spiciness: Adjust the number of green chilies and dried red chilies to suit your spice tolerance.
- Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like okra, spinach, or bottle gourd to the kadhi for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use Buttermilk: For a different twist, you can use buttermilk instead of yogurt. Just adjust the water quantity accordingly.
- Sweet Kadhi: If you like a hint of sweetness, add a teaspoon of sugar or jaggery to the kadhi while it simmers.
Health Benefits of Maharashtrian Kadhi
- Probiotic Rich: The yogurt in kadhi provides probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
- Digestive Aid: Spices like ginger, cumin, and asafoetida aid in digestion and help prevent bloating.
- Low in Calories: Kadhi is light and low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a healthy dinner.
- Nutrient-Rich: Gram flour (besan) is rich in protein and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Maharashtrian Kadhi is a comforting and wholesome dish that is easy to prepare and delightful to taste. Its unique blend of tangy yogurt and aromatic spices makes it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner option or a nutritious addition to your meal plan, this kadhi recipe is sure to satisfy. Try it out and enjoy the flavors of Maharashtra in your kitchen.